Chitra Mete

Chairperson
Award-winning Entrepreneur

Chitra Mete is a visionary entrepreneur, creative strategist, and cultural advocate who has transformed the landscape of IEC design, CSR innovation, and arts leadership in India. Founder and Managing Director of Chaitra Creations & Publicity and Ideamint, she has pioneered multilingual awareness campaigns and educational kits for government departments and corporates, impacting over a million children through MSCERT-certified, eco-friendly tools. Rooted in the artistic legacy of her father, Prof. Raosaheb Gurav, she has championed cultural preservation as Vice-President of the Bombay Art Society and as Senior Advisor to the Sumbaran Foundation for Art & Culture Trust, where she launched Sumba ArtFest 2025.

Her initiatives include reviving the Pune Handmade Paper Institute, co-founding Papertells, and creating the flagship SUJAAN program addressing child safety, environment, and social awareness. Honored with awards such as the Maharashtra Udyogini Award, Maxell Award, and Iconic Social Entrepreneur Award, Chitra exemplifies leadership that blends creativity with social impact.

Ramchandra S. Kharatmal

Secretary
Artist & Mentor

Ramchandra Kharatmal is a distinguished visual artist based in Pune, originally hailing from Solapur. Holding advanced artistic credentials A.T.D., G.D. Art (Painting), Dip.A.Ed, and M.F.A.- He brings over 24 years of rich experience to his creative process. His contribution to contemporary Indian art has been recognized with the prestigious National Lalit Kala Akademi Award, the Maharashtra State Art Award, and a two-year National Scholarship from PPIF, Mumbai.

Ramchandra’s work has been showcased across 40 national and international group shows, 3 successful solo exhibitions, and over 30 national art camps. Beyond his canvas, he actively conducts live demonstrations at premier art institutions nationwide and works as a freelance Visualizer, Concept Designer, and Illustrator. Blending traditional roots with a contemporary vision, his art continues to resonate with collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide

Prashat Bhujbal

Treasurer
Photographer

Prashant Bhujbal is an accomplished industrial and commercial photographer from Pune with over two decades of professional experience. A graduate in G.D. Arts (Photography specialization) from Abhinav Kala Mahavidyalaya, he honed his skills assisting renowned photographer Vishwas Sorte and later worked with Intellic Vision (India) Pvt. Ltd. as Senior Photographer and Cameraman. His portfolio spans temples, architecture, culture, wildlife, and commercial projects for ad agencies, corporates, and institutions. Skilled in advanced cameras and editing software, Prashant now runs his own photography business in Pune, specializing in industrial, fashion, food, architectural, and interior photography.

Dr. Douglas John

Artist
Educator & Mentor

Douglas John was born in 1967 in Solapur. In 1990 he received his degree in B.F.A from J. J. School of Art, Mumbai. In 2009 he received his degree in M.F.A. from Dr. B. A. M. University, Aurangabad.

Douglas came to Mumbai at the age of 16 and was awestruck by the spirit and diversity of the city. He launched his first solo painting exhibition, titled ‘Mumbai Déjà vu’. His second exhibition, ‘Light ‘n’ Light,’ was themed on the pilgrims devoted to Shri Siddharameshwara. The next exhibition, ‘In Search of Light,’ continued this quest. A pilgrimage involves devotion, reflection, social gathering, and processions along routes set over centuries, explained Douglas. The pilgrimage artworks show diverse variations of similar themes: the simplicity of white robes, landscapes, lighting, and the use of gold colour as a reflection of the indestructible nature of faith. These acrylic works reflect a mix of “Indianness” in themes along with Western techniques in painting. The paintings with many of the figures showing their backs to the audience evoke a sense of curiosity in viewers, who want to inject themselves in the conversations.

Douglas John is the recipient of many awards such as - State Award in painting Landscape, Maharashtra State Art exhibition in 1993. The National Achievement Award for Kala Ratna’ presented for outstanding individual achievements and distinguished services to the nation and society in 2008. The National Academy Award in the 60th National Exhibition of Art for Paintings from the series `Inner Divinity’ in 2019.

Adv. HB Keshava

Law Specialist

Dr. H. B. Keshava is a legal strategist, entrepreneur, academician, and thought leader with extensive experience in Intellectual Property, Cybersecurity, Data Privacy, Corporate Governance, and Technology Law. Holding a Ph.D. in Cyber Laws and Data Privacy, along with advanced qualifications in Intellectual Property Rights, Cybersecurity, and Business Laws, he has cultivated a multidisciplinary practice that seamlessly integrates legal, technological, and commercial perspectives to address complex business challenges.

As the Managing Partner of Baskaran Associates LLP and the Chief Executive Officer of Arica Tech Security LLP, Dr. Keshava advises startups, multinational corporations, educational institutions, and government bodies on intellectual property strategy, cyber risk governance, regulatory compliance, technology transactions, and digital transformation. He also leads Exordium Ex C Solutions and Exospirit, advancing initiatives focused on professional development, innovation, and institutional excellence.

A distinguished speaker, educator, and mentor, Dr. Keshava is a regular faculty member, keynote presenter, and advisor at leading academic and professional platforms. His contributions to legal scholarship, policy discourse, and industry engagement have earned him several professional recognitions, including the Forbes India 40 Under 40 (2026) and the Pride of Maharashtra (2026). Through his practice, he continues to champion the role of law as a strategic instrument for innovation, responsible governance, technological advancement, and sustainable growth.

Jitendra Sutar

Gold Medalist Sculptor

Jitendra Sutar is an acclaimed sculptor and artist from Pune, recognized for his mastery in sculpture and modeling. A Gold Medallist from the prestigious Sir J.J. School of Art, Mumbai, he has consistently excelled in his academic journey, securing top ranks at Abhinav Kala Mahavidyalaya, Pune, and J.N. Bhandari School of Art, Belgaum. His artistic excellence has been honored with the National Academy Award (2019) by Lalit Kala Akademi, New Delhi, and international recognition at the IV International Festival of Snow and Ice Sculpture in Siberia, Russia (2016). Jitendra has showcased his works in solo exhibitions at Jehangir Art Gallery, Mumbai, and participated in group shows across India, Singapore, and the USA. His sculptures, blending technical precision with creative vision, continue to inspire audiences worldwide, establishing him as a leading figure in contemporary Indian sculpture

Yogesh Baddi

Strategist & Creative Leader

Yogesh Baddi is a strategic thinker and creative visionary with over 20 years of expertise in building impactful brand systems, creative development, and visual storytelling. Known for his ability to transform complex business challenges into memorable brand experiences, Yogesh seamlessly combines analytical rigor with creative intuition.

Throughout his career, he has successfully designed and executed comprehensive brand strategies that drive sustainable business growth while forging meaningful connections with consumers across multiple industries. In today's highly fragmented media landscape, Yogesh operates on a core philosophy: the best brands don't just communicate, they create experiences. By prioritizing consistent storytelling and innovative design thinking, he ensures that the brands he guides don't just participate in the market—they stand out and stay remembered.

Adv. Siddhant Malegaokar

Law Practitioner

Advocate Siddhant Malegaonkar is a distinguished lawyer specializing in criminal law, labour law, and environmental law, with over seven years of practice at the Pune District and Sessions Court, Bombay High Court, and Supreme Court of India. A graduate of ILS Law College, Pune, he earned his B.S.L LL.B with First Class distinction and later secured First Class First in his LLM (Criminal Law) from Symbiosis Law College. He also holds an MBA in Human Relations and a Diploma in Cyber Crimes, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Criminal Law. Siddhant has served as a consultant for leading public, private, and government organizations, while also contributing as a visiting faculty at premier law and management institutes. A wildlife enthusiast and photographer, his work has been featured by National Geographic. He continues to blend legal expertise with social advocacy, education, and environmental awareness.

Adv. Uttakarsh Mattikop

Law Practitioner

Adv. Uttakarsh Mattikop is an Advocate, legal strategist, and technology law professional with over six years of experience at the intersection of law, innovation, and business. As a Senior Associate at Baskaran Associates LLP, he advises startups, multinational corporations, family businesses, and creative enterprises on intellectual property, corporate governance, technology transactions, cybersecurity, data protection, and emerging technology law. He holds a B.B.A. LL.B. (Hons.) from Bharati Vidyapeeth's New Law College, Pune, and an LL.M. in Business Laws from ILS Law College, Pune.

Beyond legal practice, he serves as the Director of Exordium Alliances, Chief Legal Officer at B F Mattikop Motors, Lead Consultant at Arica Tech Security LLP, and a Founding Member and Legal Advisor to the Sumbaran Art Society. A dedicated academician, he is a Visiting Faculty at ILS Law College, FLAME University, and Christ University, where he lectures on Intellectual Property, Artificial Intelligence & Law, Cyber Law, and Technology Law. His multidisciplinary approach combines legal precision, commercial acumen, and technological insight to help organisations safeguard innovation, navigate complex regulatory landscapes, and build resilient, future-ready businesses.

Surendra Karamchandani

Owner - Venus Traders

Surendra Karamchandani, Partner at Venus Traders, is a veteran of the stationery and writing instruments industry with over 50 years of experience. Since 1974, he has helped build Venus Traders into one of Pune’s most trusted destinations for students, professionals, artists, and institutions, now operating six branches across the city. A passionate promoter of writing culture, he has pioneered initiatives such as the International Pen Festival and Signature Edition Pens honoring eminent personalities like Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. He also launched Venus Art on Wheels to bring art appreciation and relaxation experiences to schools, corporates, and communities. Believing that writing is a lifelong habit that inspires creativity and growth, Mr. Karamchandani continues to blend tradition with innovation, preserving the joy of handwriting while introducing modern products to new generations.

Satish Ghatpande

Paper Sculpting Artist

Born on 10 August 1962, Satish Kashinath Ghatpande is a Pune-based artist and paper sculptor with over 42 years of professional experience. An alumnus of Abhinav Kala Mahavidyalay (G.D. Art, Applied Art, 1984), he has worked across advertising, illustration, airbrush art, and paper modelling before establishing himself as a pioneer in paper sculpture. His creations ranging from depictions of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Guru Nanak to vibrant birds and rural landscapes reflect his mastery of detail, patience, and innovation. Satish has exhibited widely at venues including Nehru Centre Art Gallery, Mumbai, and Bal Gandharva Kala Dalan, Pune, and has conducted workshops for institutions such as Symbiosis Institute of Design and MIT Pune. Recipient of the Kalanidhi Puraskar (2024) and the Indian Achievers’ Award (2025–26), he continues to inspire through his teaching, demonstrations, and unique artistic vision that blends skill with finesse.